June 21st, 2009 by Sharon Stead Galantino

Rockford has definitely taken flight and continues to spread its wings and gain altitude as a result of the recent Paris Air Show.

Rockford Area Economic Development Council’s initiative to contact Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity resulted in sponsorship and private/public support to exhibit and attend the Paris Air Show at the historic 100 year anniversary of Le Bourget Airport in Paris.

Our mission: To inform the world’s aerospace industry that the Rockford Region is a very strong contender as an ideal local for foreign companies seeking a US location for their operations in North America.

Rockford’s impressive  “Aerospace Cluster” was up till now lesser known to the likes of European aerospace suppliers. Raising their profile at the Paris Air show is step one in their long term strategy to be a center of excellence in aerospace.

This was a great experience giving Rockford and the entire State of Illinois great exposure. We certainly raised our profile to the industry.

The Illinois Office of Trade and Investment’s office in Brussels had the pleasure of working with Eric Voyles, VP for Rockford, Russ Dennis, Jr of Leading Edge Hydraulics and Ron Gustafson, Jr of Clinkenbeard who were all working hard from Rockford’s booth to promote the Rockford region and products.

It is in Rockford’s, as well as in Illinois’, best interest to keep up the momentum that has been gained at the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget France by having Rockford take off and fly high at the Farnborough International Airshow held next year on July 19 – 25 in Farnborough England.

The Paris Air Show and Farnborough International Airshow, 40 miles southwest of London, England, alternate venues annually.

June 18th, 2009 by Ron Jr "Reg" Gustafson

Like my father said in his speech before the May 28th press conference announcing the delegation’s trip: What is really exciting about the Paris Air Show is that it is an event that looks to the future of the aerospace and aviation industries with promise, hope and innovation.

These three words. . . promise, hope and innovation. . .  are what I personally believe define the cooperative efforts of our city’s current administration, the work of the city of Rockford, Rockford Area Economic Development Council, the Ill. Dept. of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, the efforts of Congressman Manzullo and the collective and individual efforts of businesses throughout the Rockford community.

Clinkenbeard is proud to be a party to this public and private alliance that seeks to enhance our community’s economic vitality and works to positively position our community now and for the future. . .and very proud to be part of this Rockford delegation to the show.

I wonder: There are so many innovative, smart and dedicated people in our city and our business community. . .How can we create an even more effective public-private partnership. . . now. . . when we arrive home. . . and for the future?

Once again, thanks to the RAEDC, the city of Rockford, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Congressman Manzullo. . . and of course, to you, dear reader!